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University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

Orientation FAQs

Be prepared for Orientation

Make sure you are up-to-date with requirements and assignments on the fall accepted student checklist or spring accepted student checklist.

What is Orientation?

Orientation is designed to ease you through the many "firsts" of going to college. Through workshops, presentations, and small group discussions, we hope to make the beginning of your college career an exciting and successful experience. You will know:

  • more about UMass Dartmouth
  • how to use the resources available to you
  • and many of your new classmates

What should I bring?

An overnight bag with sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable shoes, towel, pillow, blanket or sleeping bag, any medication you may need.  If you play a portable instrument (guitar, bongos, harmonica, etc. bring it along) - that may come in handy too - but more about that when you arrive! Finally, be sure you know your UMassD logon (user name and password) so you can access the myUMassD portal for your email and the COIN student information system. Learn more: COIN 101

What about Family Orientation?

We've sent an invitation to your home about family orientation.

How do you accommodate students with disabilities?

Students requiring special accommodations during Orientation may contact the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: 508.999.8008. Please provide as much advance notice as possible to allow for coordination of requested accommodations. 

The Center for Access and Success works with faculty, staff, and students to ensure that appropriate academic adjustments are made that allow all students equity inside the classroom. Students who have documented disabilities on our campus are afforded a variety of services to accommodate their individual needs. Contact the Office for more information: 508.999.8711.

What is the alcohol and drug policy?

In compliance with the Massachusetts legal drinking age and the UMass Dartmouth alcohol and drug policy, alcoholic beverages are not allowed at New Student Orientation. Violators of the alcohol and drug policy will be dismissed from Orientation and could face University disciplinary action, which may result in dismissal from the University.

Do you accommodate special dietary needs?

Please make us aware of any special dietary needs or allergies. Contact the Orientation Hotline so we may make the necessary arrangements prior to your arrival: 508.910.6497 or orientation@umassd.edu.

When do students take placement tests?

You are required by state law to take placement tests prior to Orientation. This will not impact your admission to UMass Dartmouth, but it enables advisors to select appropriate math courses and levels for your major.

Information for new students, such as placement testing and online orientation, may be found at: myUMassD Student Resources.

What will orientation cost?

A standard first year experience fee will be on your tuition bill. This is a one-time, non-waivable fee. Orientation is mandatory, but even if you are unable to attend because of emergencies or unavoidable conflicts, the fee will remain on your bill.

The fee that every new first year student is assessed is the First Year Experience fee. This fee is mandatory, cannot be waived and covers far more than June Orientation. The fee includes the staffing, training, meals and materials provided at all orientations, as well as the Weeks of Welcome programming every August for the entire incoming class. Beyond that, this fee supports additional events impacting the first-year experience throughout the year, including academic advising sessions, course selection workshops for spring course selection, financial literacy programs, time management workshops, socials, stress relief experiences and more.

How can I finance my education?

Financial aid in the form of student employment, grants, scholarships, and loans may be available. More information: 508.999.8632.

What should I do if I am a veteran?

A Veteran's Affairs official is on staff in the Registrar's Office to handle veteran's benefits and explain policies and procedures related to the GI Bills. Contact: 508.999.8615. More information: Veterans Services.

Other questions?